CANON POWERSHOT A10, POWERSHOT A20 Service Manual

Application

This manual has been issued by Canon Inc. for qualified persons to learn technical theory, and repair of the products.

Corrections

This manual could include typographical errors or technical inaccuracies due to improvements or changes in the products. When changes occur in applicable products or in the content of this manual, Canon will release service manual report as the need arises. In the event of major changes in the contents of this manual over a long or short period, Canon may issue new editions of this manual.

The following paragraph does not apply to any countries where such provisions are inconsistent with local law.

Trademarks

The product names and company names described in this manual are the registered trademarks of the individual companies.

This manual is copyrighted with all rights reserved. Under the copyright laws, this manual may not be copied, reproduced, published (including on the World Wide Web) or translated into another language, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Canon Inc..

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

The following precautions should be observed when servicing.

1. Since many parts in the unit have special safety-related characteristics, always use genuine CANON replacement parts.

Especially critical parts in the power circuit block should not be replaced with other makes. Critical parts are marked with ! in the schematic diagrams.

2. When servicing, observe the original lead dress. If a short circuit is found, replace all parts which have been overheated or damaged

by the short circuit.

3. After servicing, see to it that all the protective devices such as insulation barriers, insulation papers shields are properly installed.

4. After servicing, make the following leakage current checks to prevent the customer from being exposed to shock hazards.

4-1 Leakage Current Cold Check

1) Unplug the AC cord and connect a jumper between the two prongs on the plug.

2) Measure the resistance value, with an ohmmeter, between the jumpered AC plug and each exposed metallic cabinet part

on the equipment such as screwheads, connectors, control shafts, etc. When the exposed metallic part has a return path to

the chassis, the reading should be between 1MΩ and 5.2MΩ. When the exposed metal does not have a return path to the

chassis, the reading must be ∞.

4-2 Leakage Current Hot Check

1) Plug the AC cord directly into the AC outlet. Do not use an isolation transformer for this check.

2) Connect a 1.5KΩ 10 watt resistor, paralleled by 0.15µF capacitor, between each exposed metallic parts on the unit and a

good earth ground such as a water pipe, as shown in the figure below.

3) Use an AC voltmeter, with 1000Ω/volt or more sensitivity, to measure the potential across the resistor.

4) Check all exposed metallic parts of the cover (Cable connection, Handle bracket, metallic cabinet.

Screwheads, Metallic overlays, etc), and measure the voltage at each point.

5) Reverse the AC plug in the AC outlet and repeat each of the above measurements.

6) The potential at any point should not exceed 0.75V RMS.

A leakage current tester (FLUKE MODEL : 8000A equivalent) may be used to make the hot checks.

Leakage current must not exceed 0.5 milliamp.

In case a measurement is outside of the limits specified, there is a possibility of a shock hazard, and corrective action must

be taken before returning the instrument to the customer.

AC OUTLET

DEVICE UNDER TEST

AC VOLTMETER

Test all exposed metal parts

Figure. 1 Leakage Current Hot Check

1.5KΩ

0.15µF

Water pipe

(Earth Ground)

CHAPTER 1. GENERAL DESCRIPTION

OF PRODUCT

1. Development Concept 1-1 Development Objectives --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1-1 1-2 Product Concept ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1-1 1-3 Design Concept -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1-3

2. Features 2-1 High Image Quality --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1-4 2-2 Superior features and Operation Ease ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1-8 2-3 Power-saving Design ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1-13 2-4 Accessory and Software ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1-15

3. Exterior 3-1 Product Photos --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1-18 3-2 6-dimensional diagrams ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1-20 3-3 Nomenclature and Functions ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1-21 3-4 User Interface display -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1-22

4. Specifications 4-1 Camera Specifications -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1-26 4-2 System Requirements ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1-32 4-3 Specification of Major Accessories --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1-34

5. System 5-1 System Diagram ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1-36 5-2 Accessory Compatibility ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1-37

The “IXY DIGITAL” Product designation used in this document refers to the DIGITAL IXUS, and PS 100 DIGITAL ELPH designations used in various marketing areas. “IXY DIGITAL 300” refers to the IXY DIGITAL 300, and PS 300 DIGITAL ELPH designations used in various marketing areas.

1. Development Concept

1-1 Development Objectives

Canon has marketed the standard compact PowerShot A-series and S-series, the ultra-compact IXY series, the full-featured PowerShot G-series, and the top-end PowerShot Pro-series. In recent years, our competitors have concentrated on offering low-cost models to expand their market share as they target low-end user segments. Thus, it has become imperative for Canon to offer digital cameras aimed at first-time users and those who just want have fun with low-cost and easy-to-use digital cameras. The PowerShot A20 has a 1/2.7-inch, 2.11 megapixel CCD and a newly developed 3x optical zoom lens. Despite its low price tag, it offers the image quality and features found in high-end models. Much developmental attention was also given to the camera’s design and economy. The camera exceeds the user’s expectations of features from such a low-cost model. It thereby targets low-end users. The PowerShot A10, with a 1.31-megapixel CCD and almost the same features as the A20, will also be marketed at the same time to target users seeking an even cheaper model.

Basic & Good Value

For

• First-time digital camera

users

• Users seeking fun with a digital camera

• Budget users

• As a second camera for hard-core users

PowerShot A20/A10

1-2 Product Concept

“Basic & Good Value” is the PowerShot A20/A10’s product concept. It is for first-time users, those seeking fun with a digital camera, and users on a budget. It was designed to be easy to use for beginners while offering a good value for the money. To set it clearly apart from the competition, the camera was also developed to provide high image quality and high-end features normally found in more expensive models. It also has a good number of accessories. This is to attract hard-core users who may want it as a secnd camera. The small and simple Card Photo Printer CP-10 will also be marketed at the same time. Instead of viewing images only on a computer screen or TV monitor, you can easily make and view credit card-size prints of the images. This “easy printing” system may start a new oulture of digital camera printing.

1-1

High Image Quality

• Primary color filter and adaptive signal processing for maximum effect

• High-resolution, 1/2.7-inch type, 2.11-megapixel CCD (PS A20), 1/2.7-inch type, 1.32-megapixel CCD (PS A10)

• High-resolution, retractable, 3x optical zoom lens

• High-precision white balance (Auto + 4-position preset white balance)

• Intelligent AE for obtaining optimum exposures

• Exposure sensitivity set automatically according to the brightness

• Noise reduction function enables high SN ratio

• Superfine mode comparable to incompression image quality

• Totally round aperture for bette r back g round blur

Superior Features and Operation Ease

• Print directly to Card Photo Printer CP-10

• Camera controls on the back

• Digital zoom enables the angle of view to vary gradually

(PS A20 : 2.5x (Max. 7.5x together with the optical zoom))

(PS A10 : 2.0x (Max. 6x together with the optical zoom))

• Real-image optical zoom viewfinder

• Widely available size-AA batteries (Primary battery: Alkaline)

(Secondary battery: NiCd, NiMH)

• Three-point AiAF for easy focusing

• Shoot at 1.7-sec. intervals

• Built-in flash range of 4.2 m (wide-angle end), slow-sync speed mode provided

• Shutter speeds from 1 sec. to 1/1500 sec

• Total of nine image quality modes (Recording pixels x compression ratio)

• Continuous shooting at 2.5 fram es/s ec.

• Self-timer provided

• Playback the image immediately

• Playback image magnification (2.5x) for easier viewing

• High-speed fast forwarding (during image playback)

• Selecting the video output signal (NTSC/PAL)

• USB I/F for high-speed image transfer

Saving Design

• Power-saving and space-saving, small-package new digital signal processing IC and CPU

• Low-temperature, polysilicon 1.5-inch LCD monitor with power-saving backlight

• Space-saving, new four-blade lens cover built-in

• High-performance red-eye reduction with power-saving LED

• Power-saving design enabling 1000 images to be recorded

1-2

System Accessory and Software

• Optical accessories (with conversion lens adapter)

• Wide Conversion Lens for taking 24.5mm (35mm format equivalent) wide-angle shots.

• Close-up lenses for close-ups, and any other 52mm filters

• Waterproof case good to 30 m underwater

• Smaller battery charger

• Compact power adapter also compatible with the IXY DIGITAL 300

• Nickel hydride Battery and Battery Charger

• Full-featured application programs

• Easy-to-use ZoomBrowser EX 2.6 (Windows)/ImageBrowser 1.6 (Macintosh)

• PhotoRecord 1.2 for easy layout and printing of many images

• PhotoStitch 3.1 for seamless panoramic photos

• RemoteCapture 1.4 to release the camera’s shutter button from PC and image transfers to the PC directly

• USB TWAIN Driver 3.6/USB WIA Driver/Plug-In Module 3.6

• Apple QuickTime 4.1 (Movie rep lay/QVTR file crea t ion)

1-3 Design Concept

! New reputation as an entry-model PowerShot

<Friendly design for mass market users> The circle motif around the lens and the battery chamber positioned for a better grip give the camera a simple and easy-to-understand look.

! Luxurious exterior

<Metallic finish and color parts> Although it is an entry-level model, it sports a pimpled metallic finish for a luxurious look. Also, the grip portion has a transparent color (smoke brown on the EC106 and smoke gray on the EC108) accenting the camera exterior, making the camera stand out.

! Easy-to-use user interface

<Ideal layout of large Mode Dial and buttons> To enable easy operation while you refer to the LCD monitor, the highly readable Mode Dial and camera buttons are positioned around the LCD monitor on the back of the camera.

1-3

2. Features

2-1 High Image Quality

! Primary color filter and adaptive signal processing for maximum effect

From the PowerShot 600 onward, Canon has employed a complementary color (Cy, Mg, Ye, G) filter as the CCD onchip filter to obtain color. Since the complementary color filter uses light efficiently, it makes the light sensitivity very good. It thereby helps to improve the SN ratio (especially the luminance). However, since the camera processes the signal with the luminance signal and color signals ( Cr/Cb ), th e image sign al ob tained m ust h ave th e co mple mentar y colors converted into the primary colors (RGB) by the color matrix circuit. However, due to the differences in the spectral characteristics of the complementary color filter and primary color filter, a color conversion error can occur during the conversion process. This error is p rone to decrease the color SN ratio. When a primary color filter is used as the CCD on-chip filter, the resolution and luminance SN ratio becomes worse than with a complementary color filter. However, it is superior when it comes to

New digital signal processing IC

Better color reproduction

Primary color filter

Fig. 2-1 Filter array.

Better resolution

normal color reproduction. Recently, there have been more digital cameras th at use a primary color filter. The IXY DIGITAL 300 and PowerShot A20/A10 the are the first Canon digital cameras (excluding SLR models) to

Elimination of jaggies

Minimal false colors

Non-linear adaptive filter

Canon’s adaptive signal processing

False color suppression circuit

+ New IR filter

employ a primary color filter. However, just switching to a primary

High sensitivity

color filter will not necessarily result in good image quality. This is because the

Fig. 2-2 New digital signal processing IC.

resolution and luminance SN ratio will be lower. To compensate for the demerits of the primary color filter, a new signal processing circuit has been incorporated. A new digital signal processing I C has been de veloped and installed in the camera. The ad aptive processing technolo gy employed in the EOS D30 camera has been theoretically reconstructed in the new digital signal processing IC. The new digital signal processing IC eliminates the false colors created by the non-linear adaptive filter and improves the SN ratio. The new IR filter also increases the light sensitivity. Thus, the color reproduction quality is very high while the same resolution and high SN ratio obtained by the complementary color filter are also obtained.

Complementary color filter

Elimination of false colors and better S/N ratio

Elimination of noise

Minimal loss of highlight detail

Sensitivity

Primary color filter + Adaptive signal processing

Complementary

color filter

Primary color

filter

Previous processing method

Fig. 2-3 Filter types and features.

Color reproduction

quality

Adaptive signal processing

Image with little vertical luminance variation

Conventional processing

Adaptive processing

The luminance variation of outstanding pixels in the vertical, horizontal, and diagonal orientations is detected. Color interpolation is executed only in the direction where the luminance variation is minimal. Since noise is reduced, the resolution and S/N ratio are improved.

Fig. 2-4 Adaptive signal processing.

Image with little horizontal luminance variation

Image with average vertical/horizontal luminance variation

1-4

! High-resolution, 1/2.7-inch, 2.11-megapixel CCD (PS A20),

1/2.7-inch, 1.32-megapixel CCD (PS A10)

To enjoy a digital image as a print, the original image must have the number of pixels matching the print size. Normally, a regular size print requires 1.3 megapixels, a postcard-size print needs 2 megapixels, and a 5x7 in. print must have 3 megapixels to attain adequate image quality. Since the PowerShot A20 has a 1/2.7-inch, 2.11-megapixel CCD, it can record a 1600 x 1200 pixel image which is adequate for a postcard-size print. When the Card Photo Printer CP-10 is used to print out the image, an image quality of 5.9 lp/mm can be obtained for a credit card-size print. This is comparable to a normal print from a film negative. Since the PowerShot A10 has a 1.32-megapixel CCD, the resolution is numerically about 80 percent of the PowerShot A20’s. Since the CCD chip size of 1/2.7 inches is the same as the PowerShot A20’s chip, the camera has a high exposure sensitivity compared to 1.3-megapixel digital cameras equipped with a 1/3.6inch CCD.

*Althougt it can achieve 7.9lp/mm(A20) or 6.3lp/mm(A10) of resolution with the camera, the limit resolution is regulated by printer’s resolution because the printer’s resolution is lower from the camera’s

Table 2-1 Print size and image resolution (calculated values) obtainable with the PowerShot A20/A10.

PS A20 (1600 ×1200) PS A10 (1280 × 960)

Postcard size

(148 × 100 mm)

4.5 lp/mm 5.4 lp/mm 5.9 lp/mm

3.6 lp/mm 4.3 lp/mm 5.9 lp/mm

Regular size (E)

(120 × 82 mm)

Credit card size

(86 × 54 mm)

! High-resolution 3x optical zoom lens (retractable)

The PowerShot A20/A10 is equipped with a 5.4 - 16.2 mm (3x) zoom lens (equivalent to 35 - 105 mm in 35 mm format) suited for a wide range of picture-taking, from landscapes to snapshots. The lens has 9 elements in 7 groups, including one single-side aspherical element. From the front of the lens, there is group 1 (4 elements), group 2 (3 elements), and group 3 (2 elements). Rear focusing is executed by moving group 3. The focusing group’s compact configuration makes the lens movement faster and while consuming less power. As for the optical performance, the aspherical element is a highly refractive index, glass-molded element to cope with the PowerShot A20’s Nyquist frequency of 152.7 lp/mm. This effectively suppresses distortion so that the lens provides high resolution and low distortion. When the lens is extended, the lens length is 47.3 mm (at the wide-angle end)/46.1 mm (at the telephoto end). When the lens is retracted, the length shrinks to 28.11 mm to minimize the lens protrusion.

! High-precision white balance (Auto + 4-position

preset white balance)

As with previous models, the PowerShot A20/A10 has auto white balance to obtain the optimum color temperature. It also has a “Preset” setting (Daylight, cloudy, tungsten, fluorescent) to suit the respective light source’s color temperature. The user can thereby select the suitable white balance setting. The PowerShot A20/A10’s white balance is controlled by dividing the scene into over a hundred thousand of

*2/*3

blocks

. The white balance data is collected from each block and computed. Also, the table for deriving the coefficient (matrix) that determines the RGB values is optimized for each metering. The result is very high-precision exposure m etering .

Although four preset white balance settings are provided, an icon for the Black and White mode is also displayed alongside the preset white balance icons.

PowerShot A-series: 16 blocks, S-series: 64 blocks, G1 and Pro90 IS: Several hundreds of thousands of blocks.

Except PowerShot A10

1-5

zzzz Intelligent AE for obtaining optimum exposures

Compared to silver-halide film, the CCD’s exposure latitude is narrow. Even a slight exposure error will eliminate highlight or shadow detail, resulting in lower image quality. To obtain highly precise exposures, previous digital cameras have used feedback AE, multi-zone metering, meter weighting control, and other exposure control methods. To improve the exposure precision even

Focusing point Focusing point Focusing point

more, the Intelligent AE system has been developed for the PowerShot A20/A10. The AE control system has been revamped and Intelligent AE is able to obtain the optimum exposure in a wide variety of picture-taking situations. It mainly consists of the following: 1. Three-point AF linked AE, 2. Exposure compensation for low light and backlight conditions, and 3. Close-distance flash exposure compensation. A more precise

*These are only sample metering patterns out of many others.

Fig. 2-6 Metering pattern (Three-point AF linked AE).

45 40

35 30

25 20

exposure is thereby obtained even under these conditions which are prone to cause exposure errors.

2 Exposure compensation for low

1 Three-point AF linked AE

The position of the main subject is identified with the three focusing points.

Any other objects within the depth of field are also identified and the optimally weighted metering pattern is used.

light and backlit conditions

Based on the exposure results, any low-light or backlit condition is identified.

In low-light conditions, the exposure is controlled to prevent the subject from being overexposed. In backlit

conditions, the meter reading weighted on the bright area is decreased or eliminated.

zzzz Exposure sensitivity set automatically according to the brightness

With the PowerShot A20/A10, the camera sets the optimum exposure sensitivity (film speed) anywhere from ISO 70 to 140 to suit the ambient brightness. For bright scenes when camera shake is not likely, ISO 70 is set to obtain high image quality with little noise. For low-light scenes, ISO 140 is set and more

Table 2-2 Correlation between the ISO

than twice shutter speed (compared to when ISO 70 is set) is used to prevent camera shake. See Table 2-2.

3 Close-distance flash exposure

compensation.

If the subject is close, the flash metering data overflows during the preflash.

If data overflow is detected, the meter reading is taken again while incorporating exposure compensation. The main exposure is also set again simultaneously.

At EV 8 (Max. aperture: f/2.8)

ISO Equivalent ISO70 ISO140

Shutter speed 1/22 1/44

setting and shutter speed.

1-6

! Noise reduction function enables high SN ratio

Normally with a CCD, the longer the exposure is, the more noise the image will have. With the PowerShot A20/A10 noise reduction is executed autom atica lly . The process of noise reduction is as follows : After the exposure ends, the aperture remains closed and another exposure is taken at same shutter speed used for the preceding shot. This enables the camera to capture only the noise factors as data, and these noise factors are removed from the preceding shot. The noise in image is thereby reduced. With the PowerShot A20/A10, when the shutter speed is 1/6sec. or lower, noise reduction is executed. With the PowerShot A10, when the CCD temperature reaches a certain temperature, noise reduction is executed additionally regardless of the shutter used.

! Superfine mode comparable to incompression image quality

The PowerShot A20/A10 has a Superfine mode that uses a lower compression ratio than with the Fine mode. The Superfine mode offers an image quality nearly as good as with an incompressed TIFF image. And yet, the file size is greatly reduced with the JPEG baseline format. Since the Superfine mode is a non-reversible compression method, you cannot restore the original data completely. Since the compression ratio is extremely low, there are no block distortions usually found in JPEG images. The high image quality is more than adequate for business use. The processing time is also short. Since the image is in the normal JPEG baseline format, you can view it without a dedicated TWAIN Driver. It is a widely compatible mode.

Superfine Fine Normal

Large 1/4.0 1/6.3 1/12.7

Medium 1/3.5 1/5.3 1/10.1

Small 1/3.0 1/4.4 1/7.8

Table 2-3 Compression ratio of image quality modes.

1-7

2-2 Superior Features and Operation Ease

)

! Print directly to Card Photo Printer CP-10

The PowerShot A20/A10’s direct print mode enables you to print out images with the dedicated Card Photo Printer CP-10 by connecting the camera to the printer with a dedicated cable. In the playback mode, you just select the Print command in the Print dialog box displayed on the LCD monitor on the camera back. The printer will then print the image. You control the printer with the camera. With a resolution of 300 x 300 dpi, the

Fig. 2-7 Direct printin

High-quality credit card-size

rint (54 x 86mm

CP-10 provides the same image quality as Digital Printer CD-300 even though it is more compact. It also can apply a protective coating on the print for better durability. The print size is the same as a credit card (54 x 86 mm). This size is easy to organize and carry around. There are various printing options: Standard, multiple (label paper), borderless print, bordered print, date imprinting. The printing speed is 56 sec. for a print with borders. This is the fastest in its class.

For direct prints, the camera must be able to execute at high speed the printer’s color processing which is normally done by the driver in the PC. The camera must have a high-performance processor and the color processing must be geared for high speed execution. In the case of the IXY DIGITAL 300, part of the processing is executed by the camera’s digital signal processing IC at high speed. And the CP-10 is a sublimation printer that obtains high image quality even with color processing that is simpler than that of inkjet printers. Since the processing must be executed at high speed, single-dimensional processing is executed instead of three-dimensional processing. By optimizing the color characteristics of the inks used, the resulting color reproduction is adequate for practical use. Figure 2-8 shows the process flow for making a print. The digital signal processing IC executes this process at high speed until the resizing step. Then the camera executes the sharpness, color conversion, and density conversion.

JPEG

! Camera controls on the back.

Photo 2-1 Back of the PowerShot A20.

Pre-filter

Resize Sharpness

Processing by the camera

YCrCbRGB conversion

Fig. 2-8 Direct printing process flow.

RGB density conversion

Density and time conversion Gray balance

The PowerShot A20/A10 has all the camera controls (except the shutter release button) on the back, including the Mode Dial which was hitherto on the camera top. This enables you to operate the camera without looking back and forth between the top and back of the camera. You can also easily look at the LCD monitor at the same time.

1-8

Heat history compensation

Processing by the printer

zzzz Digital zoom enables the angle of view to vary gradually (PS A20 : 2.5X (Max. 7.5X together with

the optical zoom)) (PS A10 : 2.0X (Max. 6X together with the optical zoom))

As with the PowerShot A20/A10, the IXY DIGITAL 300 has a digital zoom. The digital zoom in previous models (PowerShot S10 through Pro90 IS) combined an optical zoom and digital teleconverter. Within the digital zoom range (when the digital teleconverter operates), the CCD’s reading area becomes limited to the center portion. Therefore, the number of pixels used for the image is reduced to 1/4 for a 2X magnified image or to 1/16 for a 4X magnified image. This dramatic decrease in image quality was the disadvantage of digital zoom. With the PowerShot A20/A10, the lens moves to the telephoto end. Then when it enters the digital zoom range, the lens remains in the same position while the CCD’s reading area is gradually limited to the center portion. As a result, a uniform zoom (telephoto) effect is obtained. This is the digital zoom system. There is no sudden decrease in image quality unlike with the digital teleconverter. (See Fig. 2-9.) The PowerShot A20 can change the angle of view up to

7.5X (or 263 mm in the 35 mm film format). The PowerShot A10 can change the angle of view up to

6.0X (or 210 mm in the 35 mm film format).

• PowerShot A20

Magnification

1X (Telephoto end) 105 mm 1600X1200 Image read at 5 positions during this angle (for the display)

1.25X (Telephoto end) 131 mm 1280X960 Image read at 5 positions during this angle (for the display)

1.56X (Telephoto end) 164 mm 1024X768 Image read at 6 positions during this angle (for the display) 2X (Telephoto end) 210 mm 800X600 Image read at 5 positions during this angle (for the display)

2.5X (Telephoto end) 263 mm 640X480

Focal Length (Equivalent to 35mm format)

Readable Pixels

• PowerShot A10

Magnification

1X (Telephoto end) 105 mm 1280X960 Image read at 5 positions during this angle (for the display)

1.25X (Telephoto end) 131 mm 1024X768 Image read at 6 positions during this angle (for the display)

1.6X (Telephoto end) 164 mm 800X600 Image read at 5 positions during this angle (for the display) 2 0X (Telephoto end) 210 mm 640X480

Focal Length (Equivalent to 35mm format)

Readable Pixels

Pixels (Image Quality)

Table 2-4 Focal length and readable pixels

during digital zooming.

Focal length (mm)

Fig. 2-9 Digital zooming and image quality.

1-9

! Widely available size-AA batteries (Primary battery: Alkaline)

(Secondary battery: NiCd*, nickel hydride)

To make the camera body more compact, the PowerShot A-series and S-series cameras use a lithium 2CR5 battery or a dedicated, rechargeable Ni-MH battery. The IXY DIGITAL uses a dedicated, rechargeable Liion battery. However, most competing models use size-AA batteries which are favored for their widespread availability and low price. Users also support that size-AA batteries can be used. Many audio-video products and toys use size-AA batteries. There is a wide variety of size-AA batteries such as manganese,* alkaline*, and lithium used as primary batteries. Secondary batteries include NiCd and NiMH batteries. The PowerShot A20/A10 uses size-AA batteries because they are widely available and cheap. The camera can use alkaline battery. And it can use NiCd, NiMH as secondary batteries. You can therefore choose from a wide variety of batteries to suit the shooting conditions and environment.

Size-AA batteries Prim ar y batteries Mang anes e

Alkaline Lithium

Secondary batteries NiCd

NiMH (Lithium-ion)*

* This battery is still not available as size-AA.

Fig . 2-10 Map of the Size-AA batteries

* The PowerShot A20/A10 cannot use manganese batteries.

Alkaline batteries should be used which are Canon’s recommendation. Ni-Cd batteries are not recommended positively because they have various performances.

! Three-point AiAF for easy focusing

The PowerShot A20/A10 uses the AiAF

system already proven in film-based cameras. With three focusing points, the camera can focus off-center subjects even without prefocusing. The PowerShot A20/A10’s three focusing points obtain focusing data from the three respective frames shown in Fig. 2-11. The most reliable focusing data is identified and then applied. As a general rule, the closest object covered by a focusing point is deemed as the main subject. So if there are two off-center subjects and nobody at the center (Fig. 2-12-a) or, if the main subject is off-center (Fig. 2-12-b) the camera will focus the correct subject.

Fig. 2-12-a

The PowerShot A20/A10’s AiAF system focuses the closest subject covered by the three focusing

Fig. 2-12-b

Fig. 2-11 Focusing frames.

Fig. 2-12-c

points. Therefore, if there is an object in front of the main subject as shown in Fig. 2-12 or if the camera is oriented vertically for the shot in Fig. 2-12-a, the camera may focus the wrong subject.

1-10

! Real-image optical zoom viewfinder

The PowerShot A20/A10’s optical viewfinder is a real-image viewfinder consisting of an objective lens with 3 elements in 3 groups, a fully reflective prism to bend the light flux compactly, a roof prism to right the inversed image formed by the objective lens bending the light flux, and an eyepiece lens. This optical viewfinder is coupled to the lens zooming operation. Thus, the viewfinder image also zooms during lens zooming. The compensator lens and variator lens in the viewfinder’s objective lens move along the viewfinder’s optical axis to show the proper viewfinder image matching the image obtained by the lens zooming. To make the viewfinder compact, the objective lens has only 3 elements. Each element is aspherical. In particular, the variator element has an optimum lens shape being aspherical on both sides. It is positioned for optimum refraction. Also, the viewfinder’s height and depth are kept compact with two prisms whose optical axes are refracted along the same plane by the reflective surfaces. Moreover, four fully reflective surfaces (one on the fully reflective prism and three on the roof prism) are used, and only one surface is a vapor deposition mirror. The inherent light loss is thereby minimized and a flare-cutting diaphragm is strategically positioned to eliminate unwanted light rays. The result is a bright viewfinder image. Also, the long eye relief of 16 mm enables even eyeglass wearers to easily see the viewfinder image.

! Shoot at 1.7-sec. intervals

The PowerShot A20/A10 has a new digital signal processing IC which is an improved version of the Canondeveloped digital signal processing IC. It enables a short shooting interval of 1.7 sec. Also, other time-consuming functions such as camera startup, digital zooming, image playback, magnified viewing, and image scrolling now perform in a shorter time.

Fig. 2-13 Shutter release time lag and shooting interval.

! Built-in flash range of 4.2 m (wide-angle end), slow-sync speed mode provided

The PowerShot A20/A10’s built-in flash has a large-capacity capacitor and a large flash tube to provide the highest flash output in this camera class. This extends the flash range to 4.2 m at the wide-angle end. A slow-sync speed mode is also provided to properly expose a dark background behind a human subject.

PowerShot A20/A10 PS A50, S10/20, G1, Pro90 IS Applicable Conditions Results

Slow-sync

Speed Mode

Manual

Mode / Flash OFF

Night Scene mode / Flash ON Slow shutter speed or long

exposure / Flash ON Table 2-4 Applicable conditions and results with various flash modes.

The subject is in front of a sunset, night scen e, etc . Indoor lighting effec t s are desired.

Both the subject and background are exposed correctly. The effects of the indoor lighting become apparent.

1-11

! Shutter speeds from 1 sec. to 1/1500 sec.

The PowerShot A20/A10 boasts the fastest shutter speed in its camera class with 1/1500 sec. This shutter speed can freeze a fast-moving subject quite well. Also, with the f/13.4 aperture (at the telephoto end), the camera can take pictures of scenes as bright as EV 18. This is suitable for a sunny beach and ski slope. The slowest shutter speed of 1 sec. and the f/2.7 aperture (at the wide-angle end) enable the camera to photograph scenes as dark as EV3. This is effective for sunsets and dim indoor lighting without using flash.

! Total of nine image quality modes (Recording pixels x compression ratio).

The PowerShot A20/A10 offers a choice of nine image quality combinations with three pixel modes (Large, Medium, and Small) and three compression ratios (Superfine, Fine, and Normal). The user can select the image quality mode that suits the respective purpose.

High-quality print On-screen display

Large Superfine Medium Superfine Small Superfine

Archival Internet image

Table 2-5 Application of image quality modes.

Large Fine Medium Fine Small Fine

Large Normal Medium Normal Small Normal

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2-3 Power-saving Design

z New and compact digital signal processing IC and CPU with low power consumption

The PowerShot A20/A10 uses a new digital signal processing IC which is an improved

16 x 16

19 x 19 13 x 13 13 x 13

version of the digital signal processing IC found in the PowerShot S10 and later models. The new digital signal processing IC features high performance and sophisticated functions in

Digital signal

processing

CPU

Digital signal

processing

CPU

a compact package. It also consumes little power and greatly contributes to the downsizing of the camera. The PowerShot A20/A10 also has the same

Old imaging engine and CPU

Fig. 2-14 Size comparison (in mm) of the old and new

digital signal processing IC and CPU.

New imaging engine and CPU

space-saving CPU found in the IXY DIGITAL.

z Thin, low-temperature polysilicon LCD monitor consuming little power

In previous models, a flat fluorescent tube was used as the LCD backlight. Since flat fluorescent tubes require a high voltage to light up, an inverter circuit had to be included. This made the backlight unit bulky. Its high power consumption also required a large battery, making the camera less compact. Like the IXY DIGITAL, the IXY DIGITAL 300 uses a white LED for the backlight. The white LED consumes little power and therefore does not require an inverter circuit or a large battery. The result is a thinner camera. Also, as shown in the figure, the extra space afforded by the backlight unit’s oblique shape is utilized by the optics. Space is thereby used efficiently. Also, the LCD unit is a new, highly transparent unit. The lens sheet was made so that the backlight LED’s light tubes could be reduced from four (on the IXY DIGITAL) to three without the brightness decreasing. This saved more space and power.

Flat fluorescent tube

PowerShot S10/S20

z Space-saving, new four-blade lens cover built-in

Inverter circuit

Fig. 2-15 LCD unit construction.

White LED

PowerShot A10/A20

Since the PowerShot A20/A10’s lens diameter (front element) is bigger than that of the PowerShot S10/S20 and IXY DIGITAL, the built-in lens cover is proportionately larger. If the same 4-blade lens cover used in the PowerShot S10/S20 is incorporated in the PowerShot A20/A10, it would make the

PS S10/20 IXY DIGITAL PS A20/A10

camera too thick. And incorporating the IXY DIGITAL’s 2-blade lens cover would require

Cover Closed

a larger radius. A new 4-blade, built-in lens cover was therefore developed to save space in the PowerShot A20/A10. Although it has four blades like the PowerShot S10/S20’s lens cover, the new lens

Cover Open

cover has two large blades and two small blades set on the same plane. Since the space for the lens cover is only two-dimensional, the increase in the thickness and height is minimized.

(This is only a conceptual illustration which does not show the actual movement.)

Fig. 2-16 Lens cover when open and closed.

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! High-performance, red-eye reduction with power-sa v ing LED

For red-eye reduction in flash pictures, the PowerShot A20/A10 has a red-eye reduction lamp in the flash unit. To reduce the chances of red eye occurring in the human subject, the red-eye reduction lamp lights before the flash fires. The red-eye reduction lamp is a bright, high-performance, orange LED with low power consumption. It can attain the same red-eye reduction effect as the PowerShot S10/S20’s red-eye reduction lamp while consuming less power.

! Power-saving design enabling 1000 images to be recorded

With an imaging engine consuming little power, an LCD monitor with no backlight, and a lower power supply voltage, the PowerShot A20/A10 was designed to save power. Also, with size-AA batteries serving as the power source, the camera can capture 500 images with alkaline batteries*, and 1000 images with NiMH batteries*.

* Specified batteries

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2-4 Accessory and Software

! Abundant optical accessories (Conversion Lens Adapter required)

• Wide Conversion Lens for taking 24.5mm (35mm film equivalent) wide-angle shots Wide Conversion Lens WC-DC52 has been newly developed so that the PowerShot A20/A10 can take wide-angle shots not possible with the 35-105mm (35mm film equivalent) lens. The WC-DC52 reduces the camera lens focal length to 0.7x which affords a wide-angle effect equivalent to 24.5mm in the 35mm format. This is unique among cameras in the same class. Conversion Lens Adapter LA-DC52 is also required.

- When the wide converter is attached, the optical viewfinder cannot be used. The LCD monitor must

be used instead. The flash also cannot be used because it will be obstructed by the wide converter.

• Close-up lenses for close-ups, and 52mm filters To enable close-ups, close-up lenses (250D 52mm) can be used. Also, 52mm filters can be attached* to obtain a variety of visual effects. Conversion Lens Adapter LA-DC52 is required to attach a closeup lens or filter to the camera.

- When a filter is attached, the optical viewfinder and built-in flash cannot be used. There are also

filters that may affect the exposure control.

! Waterproof case effective down to 30 m underwater

PowerShot A20/A10’s waterproof case allows you to use the camera at the beach, in wet weather, and underwater down to 30 meters. Unlike the weather-proof AW-PS100/110 and AW-PS200 cases for previous models allowing 3-meter underwater use, the IXY DIGITAL 300’s waterproof case enables you to use the camera for scuba diving.

! Compact power adapter

For the user’s convenience, a power adapter will be marketed along with the PowerShot A20/A10. This power adapter can also be used with the PowerShot A20/A10 which will be marketed at the same time as the IXY DIGITAL 300. The power adapter’s output voltage is designed to be within the common voltage range of both the IXY DIGITAL 300 and PowerShot A20/A10. Power is supplied to the camera via the DC Coupler DR-500.

! Ni-MH batteries + Charger

For economy-minded users, secondary, rechargeable Ni-MH batteries and a Canon battery charger will be available for the PowerShot A20/A10. The battery voltage is 1.2 V, and the capacity is 1600 mAh (min. 1550 mAh). With the dedicated battery charger, two batteries can be recharged in about 110 min. (TBD), and four batteries can be recharged in about 220 min. (TBD).

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Fig. 2-17 Ni-MH batteries + charger.

! Full-featured application programs

• Easy-to-use ZoomBrowser EX 2.6 (for Windows)/ImageBrowser 1.6 (for Macintosh)

The ZoomBrowser EX (for Windows) and ImageBrowser (for Macintosh) programs marketed at the same time as the PowerShot S-series cameras were well received. Upgraded versions (ZoomBrowser EX

2.2/ImageBrowser 1.2) of both programs were offered when the IXY DIGITAL came out. For the PowerShot G1, ZoomBrowser EX 2.4 and ImageBrowser 1.4 have been made compatible with the Canon BJ-F870PD printer to be marketed in Dec. 2000 (Japan only). When you insert a Compact Flash card into the printer, the ZoomBrowser EX /ImageBrowser program starts up automatically. ZoomBrowser EX 2.6 for the PowerShot A20/A10 and IXY DIGITAL 300 is for simple image editing such as color, brightness, and contrast adjustments and image cropping. It enables on-screen slide shows, DPOF editing, and e-mail support. It can change the image to the required size and compression ratio (image quality) to attain the desired file size. The e-mail program starts up automatically and the image is attached to a new message automatically. If the e-mail program does not start up automatically, the resized image is saved and it can be attached to an e-mail message manually.

Film size Compression level

Like the ZoomBrowser EX 2.6, the ImageBrowser 1.6 is also a simple imageediting program. It can be used for on-screen slide shows and DPOF editing, and it is also compatible with e-mail.* Its printing function has been improved with options enabling you to print multiple images on one page, change the order of the images, resize or rotate the image, and insert text. You can also use ZoomBrowser EX

2.6/ImageBrowser 1.6 to adjust the image quality parameters of images captured in the RAW mode by the PowerShot G1/Pro90 IS, and EOS D30 (the PowerShot A20/A10 does

Current file size

Fig. 2-18 Compression level and film size setting dialog

box.

not have a RAW mode).

-With the ImageBrowser program, the image is not attached to an e-mail 　 message

automatically. The user must do it manually.

• Photorecord 1.2 (Windows only) for easy layout and printing of photos

Photorecord 1.2 enables you to easily layout and print out photos. In the ZoomBrowser EX browser area or in the camera window, you select the folder or image you want to print. Then you just click on the Print Layout button to insert text anywhere or select a text frame. Also, with the new Extension DDI driver developed for the new BJ-F870 printer, the photos will be automatically laid out for the borderless printing paper (perforated) that will be marketed at the same time. You can thereby easily print out borderless photos with the next generation of BJ printers.

In Japan: 5 sizes Outside Japan: 2 sizes L size 2L size DSC size 8”x10” size for digital camera Glossy Photo Card 6” x 4” size

Glossy Photo Card 6” x 4” size Photo Card Pro 6” x 4” size

Fig. 2-19 Automatic layout for the

1-16

borderless

rinting paper.

• PhotoStitch 3.1 for seamless panoramic photos

Pictures taken in the stitch assist mode can be used to create a long panoramic picture with PhotoStitch 3.1. This program automatically obtains the camera’s property information (compositing orientation, image sequence, focal length, and camera model name) used to stitch the images together. The operation is easy, yet highly precise. You also have the option of cylindrical imaging (for pasting on a curved surface) or flat imaging (for pasting on a flat surface) to create panoramic pictures having much less distortion than before. You can also save the panoramic picture in the QuickTime VR format.

Actual image capture

Image-mapping

Photographer

With old software version

Fig. 2-20 Imaging methods.

Photographer

Cylindrical im aging

Photographer

Flat imaging

• RemoteCapture 1.3 to release the camera’s shutter button from the PC and direct image transfers directly

With RemoteCapture 1.3, you can operate the PowerShot A20/A10 remotely with a PC. In the PC mode, you can transfer or delete images. In the remote control mode, you can also operate the camera’s picture-taking functions. The following remote control operations and settings are possible with a PC:

" Thumbnail display of all captured images in the current session since Remote Capture 1.3 was

started

" Index printing of thumbnail images " Display of the thumbnail’s original image " Shutter release operation (single shooting, interval shooting, test shooting) " Indication of the remaining number of images that can be saved in the computer or camera’s

Compact Flash card

" Display of the image’s brightness distribution pattern " Display of shooting data (date, shooting mode, shutter speed, aperture, etc.) " Rotation of an image saved in the computer " Setting of the zoom position (excluding electronic zoom) " Setting of the white balance, recording pixel/compression ratio, macro, flash, and exposure

compensation

" Enabling or disabling the image for saving in the Compact Flash card

• USB TWAIN Driver 3.6/USB WIA Driver/Plug-In Module 3.6

For compatibility with the new Windows ME operating system, the camera is bundled with a new USB WIA Driver. If the OS is Windows 98 or Windows 2000, the USB TWAIN driver can be used. For Windows ME, the USB WIA Driver is used. The new driver is compatible with the WIA (Windows Image Acquisition) provided by Windows ME. You can also use this program to adjust the image quality parameters of images captured in the RAW mode by the PowerShot G1/Pro90 IS, and EOS D30 (the PowerShot A20/A10 does not have a RAW mode).

• Highly-rated third-party software

Apple QuickTime 4.1 This is a standard multimedia tool for playing movies, sound, still images, etc. It can play the movie clips and sound recorded by the IXY DIGITAL 300, PowerShot Pro90 IS and PowerShot G1. It can also save the PhotoStitch-created image in the QTVR format.

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3. Exterior

3-1 Product Photos

Photo 3-1 PowerShot A20 front Photo 3-2 PowerShot A10 front

Photo 3-3 PowerShot A20 top

Photo 3-4 PowerShot A20 rear

1-18

! Main accessories

Lens accessory 　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　

Photo3-5 Wide Converter WC-DC52

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　Battery accesso ry

“” AíåÛ

Photo 3-8 Compact Power Adapter CA-PS500

Photo3-6 Conversion Lens Adapter LA-DC52

“” AíåÛ

Photo3-7 Close-up lens 250D

Cable

Photo 3-9 Size AA NiMH Rechargeable Battery Pack NB-1AH & Battery Charger NB-3AH

Photo3-10 Interface Cable IFC-300PCU

Photo3-11 Video Cable VC-100

1-19

3-2 6-dimensional diagrams

110.3 (4.34)

37.6 (1.48)

43.0 (1.69)

71.0 (2.80)

Fig. 3-1 PowerShot A20’s 6-dimentional views

* PowerShot A10’s 6-dimentional views is same as PowerShot A20.

1-20

Unit : mm (in.)

3-3 Nomenclature and Functions

Shutter Button

LCD Monitor

View finder

Indicators

Zoom Button

Shooting : Tele photo / Wide Angle

Replaying Magnifying Images Index Views

DISPLAY Button

Mode Dial

(Continuous)

(Self-timer)

(Left) Button

SET Button

(Macro) (Infinity)

(Right) Button

Strap Eyelet

Optical Viewfinder Window

Date Battery Holder

CF Card Slot Cover

(Flash) /

Lens/Lens Cover

Exposure Compensation / White Balance Button

Main Switch

MENU Button

AF-Auxiliary Light Emitter Red-Eye Reduction Lamp Self-Timer Lamp

Flash

Terminal Cover

DC IN Terminal

Video Out Terminal (PS A20 only)

Battery Cover Lock

Battery Lock (inside)

DIGITAL Terminal

Tripod Socket

Battery Cover

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3-4 User Interface display

Single Shot / Continuous Shot / Self-timer

Flash (Auto / Red-eye reduction auto / ON / OFF / Slow-sync speed)

-Review (OFF / 2 sec.[Default] / 10 sec.)

-Compression (Superfine / Fine [Default] / Normal)

Exposure Compensation

Shooting Method

-White Balance mode (Auto / Daylight / Cloudy / Tungsten / Fluorescent / Black & White)

-Compression

-Resolution

Focus(Normal / Macro / Infinity) *Normal mode icon is not displayed.

Remaining Image Capacit y / Remaining / passing time of Movie.

-File No. reset (ON / OFF [Default])

-Beep (ON[Default] / OFF)

-Format (CF)

-Auto

-Manual

-Stitch Assist

MENU Button

-Resolution (Large [Default] / Medium / Small)

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Setting

-Auto Power Down (ON [Default] / OFF)

-Date/Time (set the date and time / Style)

-Video System (NTSC/PAL)

-Language (English / Deutsch / Francais / Espanol / Japanese [NTSC version]) (English / Deutsch / Francais / Nederlands / Dansk / Suomi / Itliano / Norsk / Svenska / Espanol [PAL version])

Prepares the camera for shooting

+ SET Button

-Auto

-Manual

-Stitch Assist

Exposure Compensation/ White Balance

-Manual

-Stitch Assist

Prepares the camera for shooting

Button

+ SET Button

MENU Button

Prepares the camera for shooting

SET Button

Exposure Compensation/ White Balance Button

SET Button

Button

1-23

File number

Shooting Method Shooting mode Macro/Infinity

Enlarge Button

DISPLAY Button DISPLAY Button

Shooting Date / Time

Recording pixels / Image compression level

Protection status

Image number / Total number of images

Index Button

Index Button

Enlarge Button

Selected image

DISPLAY Button

White Balance Exposure Compensation

Flash

Button

Nine images can be shown in the display.

Scroll

Button

Approximate position

1-24

MENU Button

Single Erase

Erase all

Protect

+ SET Button

Print Order

Slide Show

Rotate (0 degree, 90 degrees, 270 degrees)

+ SET Button

The following applies when the camera is set to the replay mode and connected to the Card Photo Printer CP-10.

+ SET Button

MENU Button

1-25

4. Specifications

4-1 Camera specifications <Image Sensor (CCD)>

PowerShot A20 PowerShot A20

-Reading format Interline <<

-Chip size 5.36 (H) x 4.05 (V) mm 5.28 (H) x 3.97 (V) mm

(0.21) (0.16) (in.) (0.21) (0.16) (in.) equivalent to 1/2.7-inch equivalent to 1/2.7-inch

-Unit cell size 3.275 (H) x 3.275 (V) micro mm 4.1 (H) x 4.1 (V) micro mm

(0.129) (0.129) (in.) (0.16) (0.16) (in.)

-Total pixels Approx. 2.11 million (1688 (H) x 1248 (V)) Approx. 1.32 million (1363(H) x 972 (V))

-Effective pixels Approx. 2.02 million (1636 (H) x 1236 (V)) Approx. 1.25 million (1288(H) x 968 (V))

-Filter array Primary-color Bayer filter <<

<Lens>

-Focal length 5.4 (W) - 16.2 (T) mm (35 (W) - 105(T) mm 35mm film equivalent)

-f/number 2.8 (W) - 4.8 (T)

-Focusing range Normal AF : 76 cm (2.50 ft.) -infinity

(Measured from top of Macro AF : 16 cm (6.30 in.) (W) / 26cm (10.2 in.) (T) - 76 cm (2.53 ft.) lens barrel)

-Lens construction 7 groups 9 pieces

-Type Real-image optical zoom viewfinder (Primary image)

-Magnification 0.31 (W) - 0.93 (T)

-Coverage W : Vertical : 80 % Horizontal : 80 % (When object is 2 m away.)

T : Vertical : 80 % Horizontal : 80 % (When object is 2 m away.)

-Type Low-temperature polycrystalline silicon TFT color LCD

-Total pixels 119,548 pixels (490 (H) x 242 (V))

-Effective pixels 117,600 pixels (490 (H) x 240 (V))

-Display size 38 mm diagonal (1.5 inch)

-Coverage 100 %

-Control system TTL AiAF

-Focusing points 3 focusing points

-Light Metering method Evaluative metering (linked to focus point)

-Exposure method Program AE

-Exposure compensation ±2.0 EV (1/3-steps)

-Shutter type Mechanical shutter and electronic shutter

-Aperture range f/2.7, f/4.8

-Shutter speed 1 - 1/1500 sec.

(1~1/6sec. is available at Flash OFF / slow Syncro in MANUAL mode.)

1-26

+ 96 hidden pages

CANON POWERSHOT A10, POWERSHOT A20 Service Manual

CONTENTS

1. Development Concept

2. Features

3. Exterior

4. Specifications